2006 Toyota Yaris 1.4L Diesel · NM06 AHU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 18 November 2021, was passed but returned a number of advisories – light oil misting from both rear shock absorbers, corrosion of the inner rear vehicle structure (though structural rigidity was judged unaffected) and slight play in the off‑side front suspension arm ball‑joint. Over the preceding ten‑year record the vehicle has oscillated between clean passes and isolated failures, notably a rear stop‑lamp fault and an excessively worn anti‑roll‑bar ball joint in 2019. While the latest test shows no outright failures, the recurrence of rear shock oil leakage, ball‑joint play and corrosion suggests a maintenance pattern that is holding the car just above the legal threshold rather than actively resolving underlying wear, indicating a borderline but not yet deteriorating state. At 119,371 mi the Yaris averages just under 6,000 mi per year, a figure well below the typical usage for a 20‑year‑old vehicle. Such low annual mileage often points to intermittent or predominantly short‑distance use, which can be benign for power‑train wear but may conceal age‑related degradation of rubber components, seals and corrosion‑prone areas that sit idle for long periods. The modest mileage also means that consumables such as brake discs, tyres and suspension bushes may have been replaced less frequently than mileage alone would dictate, potentially leaving them nearer the end of their service life despite the relatively low odometer reading. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the rear shock absorbers – inspect for any oil seepage around the shock bodies and feel for a loss of damping when applying the brakes or driving over bumps; excessive bounce or clunking can indicate internal wear that may soon require replacement. The front suspension arm ball‑joint and the anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint should be checked for any perceptible play by rocking the wheel at the 12 and 6 o’clock positions and listening for metallic clunks during steering input; excessive movement can lead to imprecise handling and accelerated tyre wear. The advisories concerning corrosion of the rear inner structure merit a visual inspection of the rear sills, floor pan and under‑body for rust patches, especially around wheel arches and the boot floor, as hidden corrosion can progress to structural compromise if left untreated. Brake discs, flagged as pitted and scored in 2019, should be measured for remaining thickness and examined for uneven wear patterns that could cause brake shudder; the slightly corroded front brake pipes noted in 2017 also warrant a thorough check for leaks or weakened fittings. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive age‑related inspection is advisable regardless of mileage. Examine all tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or tread depth below the legal 1.6 mm, as ageing rubber can fail even on low‑kilometre cars. Test the 12 V battery with a load tester and verify electrolyte levels, as prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power. Inspect coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid for colour change or particulate contamination – a fluid change every two years is standard practice for a car of this vintage. Finally, review the service history for evidence of regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and ensure that any major wear items flagged in the MOT record have been addressed; a vehicle that has been well‑maintained despite low use is far more likely to remain reliable and safe on the road.